The National Publicity Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Bolaji Abdullahi, has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of undermining Nigeria’s democratic space, describing the administration as “the most shameless government in the country’s history.”
Abdullahi’s remarks, posted on his official X account on Tuesday, focus on recent turbulence within the People’s Redemption Party (PRP). He said the crisis exemplifies a broader pattern of the APC‑led government sabotaging opposition parties.
According to Abdullahi, three weeks ago PRP National Chairman Hakeem Baba‑Ahmed led a courtesy visit to the ADC leadership. Shortly thereafter rumors circulated that a coalition of political forces was considering the PRP as a potential ally. Although Abdullahi said the speculation was unfounded, he noted that it sparked the emergence of a faction within the historically tranquil PRP, challenging Baba‑Ahmed’s leadership.
The ADC spokesperson argued that the incident reflects a “shrinking democratic space” under the APC. He acknowledged that the government often denies involvement in internal disputes of opposition parties, but contended that the pattern is evident and observable internationally.
Abdullahi questioned whether any members of the ruling party are willing to warn those orchestrating crises in opposition groups, suggesting that such actions risk national instability. He warned that a strategy based on weakening every opposition platform is self‑defeating, stating, “When people are left with no options, they are, in reality, left with no choice.”
The comments come amid growing concern among Nigerian civil‑society groups about the health of the country’s democratic institutions. The APC has not responded publicly to the ADC’s accusations. Observers note that internal disputes are not uncommon in Nigeria’s multiparty system, but the timing and intensity of the PRP’s turmoil have drawn attention to the broader political climate.
The ADC’s criticism adds to mounting pressure on the ruling party ahead of upcoming electoral cycles, raising questions about how political competition will be managed in the country’s evolving democratic landscape.
